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23 February 2024 | Story Leonie Bolleurs | Photo SUPPLIED
Tebogo Motsei
Tebogo Motsei, a PhD student in Physics at the UFS, has been awarded the prestigious CV Raman International Fellowship for African Researchers.

Imagine a supercapacitor/battery made right here in South Africa that could change the way we store energy for the better. A product that can store energy in real time, thus solving energy problems as they happen, which makes a huge difference especially during power outages. A product that is not just good for the environment – transitioning away from lithium-ion batteries – but that can also create jobs and boost the local economy.

What we are talking about is a type of technology known as a sodium-ion supercapacitor/battery, which is the focus of Tebogo Motsei’s research. This technology serves as a power source for lighting, power plants, cars, and phones. Motsei, a PhD student in the Department of Physics on the Qwaqwa Campus of the University of the Free State (UFS), explains that – unlike lithium batteries, which have undergone extensive research and are expensive to produce – they are conducting experimental work and characterisations to determine if sodium-ion supercapacitor/batteries can perform as well or even better, using more affordable and eco-friendly materials.

“Our results, inspired by the urgent need for improved energy storage solutions in South Africa amid its energy challenges, have been very promising. We have successfully developed a sodium-ion supercapacitor/battery that stores as much energy as a lithium-ion battery. Moreover, it was crafted from recycled materials, making it a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly option,” states Motsei, adding that their battery is unique, as no one else in the world has created anything quite like it, despite numerous attempts.

She is also pleased with this supercapacitor/battery’s ability to repair itself. Motsei explains, “Imagine if your toy could fix itself whenever it got broken – that's kind of what our sodium-ion supercapacitor/battery does!”

Motsei is part of a group of scientists in the Department of Physics at the UFS who are working on this research and who have published a scientific article on their work, titled Composite super-capacitor/Na-ion battery with self-healing Fe–Cr alloy electrodes. 

“We're proud of what we have accomplished,” she remarks.

Fellowship: a dream come true

Being part of this impactful research contributed to Motsei receiving the prestigious CV Raman International Fellowship for African Researchers (2023). The fellowship is for African researchers engaged in research at an African institution, providing opportunities for research collaboration in India. Motsei will be the only candidate from South Africa.

This award is merit-based. Motsei attributes her selection to factors such as her strong academic record, research accomplishments, and innovative approach to solving complex problems. She also believes her experience in research, collaboration, and publication reflects her potential to make meaningful contributions to the field during the fellowship period. 

Another key factor contributing to her selection for this fellowship is her skill in fabricating actual devices/prototypes. “The hands-on nature of this research, allowing me to create devices from scratch, has always been my passion. Making my first device – the ‘Magnetron Sputtering Unit’ – during my master’s studies, was a turning point. It made me realise that I had made the best decision ever by choosing this research field. I'm truly passionate about my work,” says Motsei. 

For her PhD studies, she is supervised by Prof Richard Ocaya, Associate Professor in the Department of Physics, and co-supervised by Dr Kamohelo Tshabalala, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physics. Prof Ocaya, proud of Motsei’s achievements, believes that this fellowship not only serves as a great motivation for students – especially on the Qwaqwa Campus – but also highlights the global relevance of the UFS, particularly the Department of Physics.

Motsei says receiving this fellowship is a dream come true and a profound, life-changing moment for her. “I feel deeply honoured to be concluding this programme at the CSIR-Electrochemical Research Institute, the host institution in India, under the guidance of Prof Arul Manuel Stephan, whose invaluable assistance has been instrumental in my preparations.” Motsei also expressed her gratitude towards everyone who has supported her during this process, including Sudhir Kumar from the Indian Embassy in Pretoria.

“I am excited about how I can use this opportunity to make a difference. Whether it’s tackling significant global energy issues or finding new ways to solve everyday problems, I know this fellowship will give me the tools and support needed to make a real impact. Overall, I see this fellowship as a stepping stone to exciting new opportunities and adventures in the world of research,” she comments.

Making a meaningful impact

Motsei will be leaving for India on 23 February for a period of six months. She is excited about this new chapter in her research journey. “This fellowship will enhance my abilities as a scientist and leader in physics, providing me with essential skills, connections, and experience to make a meaningful impact in science and energy. I'm genuinely happy about this opportunity, which I thank God for.”

  • Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman, after whom the fellowship is named, was a renowned Indian physicist who made great contributions to physics, winning many prizes and awards, including the 1930 Nobel Prize in Physics. He was known for his work in the field of light scattering and was the first Asian and non-European to receive a Nobel prize in any branch of science. 

News Archive

UFS application figures show a good upward trend
2008-10-23

Applications for admission to the University of the Free State (UFS) are showing an upward trend. In comparison with the same time last year, the total application figure has increased from 6 273 to 7 507 – a growth of 19,7%.

So far, applications for postgraduate studies are showing the biggest growth with 1 342 applications received. During the same time last year, 594 applications for postgraduate studies were received – an increase of 126%.

Prospective students have until 30 November 2008 to apply for admission. “This applies to first-time entering first-year students and senior students who have interrupted their studies for at least one year,” said Mr Vernon Collett, Registrar: Student Academic Services, at the UFS.

According to Mr Collett students whose applications for admission are received after 30 November 2008 and until 13 January 2009 will be accepted subject to the availability of place on the programme they applied for.

Applications from prospective students who wrote the Senior Certificate (prior to 2008) and who are in the possession of a conditional exemption will only be accepted until 5 January 2009.

Prospective students who want to apply must pay a non-refundable fee of R140.
The signed application form must be accompanied by a certified copy of the prospective student’s identity document or passport, a proof of payment of the application fee as well as a certified copy of their Statement of Results of their Senior Certificate.

Prospective students who are in Grade 12 this year will receive a National Senior Certificate. A certified copy of their Statement of Results must be faxed to the UFS not later than 7 January 2009.

The application form of a minor must be signed by his/her parent or guardian and the field of study should be clearly indicated.

First-time entering first-year students from the Faculties of Economic and Management Sciences and the Humanities (including Education) will be welcomed by the Acting Rector, Prof. Teuns Verschoor, on Friday, 9 January 2009 at 09:00 in the Callie Human Centre on the Main Campus.

The welcoming of students from the Faculties of Health Sciences, Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Law and Theology will take place on Saturday, 10 January 2009 at 09:00 in the Callie Human Centre.

The registration of first-time entering first-year students will commence on 13 January 2009 and that of senior students on 19 January 2009 at the Callie Human Centre according to a programme.

Students who applied for admission after 30 November 2008 and are accepted can register from 4 February 2009.

Lectures will commence on 2 February 2009 and the registration process will end on 10 February 2009. This is applicable to all students – undergraduate as well as postgraduates

Prospective students who want to apply for admission or who have any enquiries can call 051 401 3000 or visit the UFS web site at www.ufs.ac.za.

 

Media Release:
Issued by: Lacea Loader
Assistant Director: Media Liaison
Tel: 051 401 2584
Cell: 083 645 2454
E-mail: loaderl.stg@ufs.ac.za  
22 October 2008

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